24.30.2521    EACH EMPLOYER TO HAVE EDUCATION-BASED SAFETY PROGRAM

(1) Every employer shall establish, implement and maintain an education-based training program which shall, at minimum:

(a) provide each new employee with a general safety orientation containing information common to all employees and appropriate to the business operations, before they begin their regular job duties. The department recommends this orientation contain both oral and written instruction and include, but not be limited to information on:

(i) accident and hazard reporting procedures;

(ii) emergency procedures;

(iii) fire safety;

(iv) first aid;

(v) personal protective equipment; and

(vi) work site hazards;

(b) provide job or task-specific safety training appropriate for employees before they perform that job or task without direct supervision. The department recommends this training:

(i) include specific safety rules, procedures and hazards;

(ii) clearly identify the employer's and employee's responsibilities regarding safety in the workplace;

(iii) be conducted by personnel knowledgeable of the task being trained; and

(iv) be conducted:

(A) when the safety program is established;

(B) whenever employee job assignments change;

(C) whenever new substances, processes, procedures or equipment are introduced to the work place; and

(D) whenever anew hazard is identified;

(c) offer continuing regular refresher safety training.

This training could be accomplished through periodic safety meetings or various other formats. The department recommends this training:

(i) be held as often as is appropriate, but at least annually; and

(ii) contain material to maintain and expand knowledge and awareness of safety issues in the workplace;

(d) provide a system for the employer and their employees to develop an awareness and appreciation of safety through tools such as:

(i) newsletters;

(ii) periodic safety meetings;

(iii) posters; and

(iv) safety incentive programs;

(e) provide periodic self-inspection for hazard assessment when the safety program is implemented, new worksites are established and thereafter as is appropriate to the business operations, but at least annually, which:

(i) identifies hazards and unsafe work practices or conditions;

(ii) identifies corrective actions needed; and

(iii) documents corrective action taken; and

(f) include documentation of performance of activities listed in (a) through (e) above. The documentation must be retained by the employer for three years. The documentation should include:

(i) the date, time, location and description of training, inspections and corrective actions; and

(ii) a list of the participants, i.e, inspectors, trainers, employees.

(2) The department suggests that employers contact their insurer for advice and assistance in implementing safety programs that are consistent with these rules.

History: Sec. 39-71-1505 MCA; IMP, Sec. 39-71-1505 MCA; NEW, 1994 MAR p. 1156, Eff. 5/1/94.